Saco – Jason Nutting and Shannan Hall-Nutting, owners of Finish Forward Dogs, Inc. are pleased to announce that they will be opening the doors to their new dog training and event studio next month.


The studio will feature approximately 4,000 square feet of clear-span training space equipped with 100% recycled rubber flooring. Additional amenities include conference room, offices, restrooms and sufficient on-site parking. Located at 30 Spring Hill Road in the Saco Industrial Park, the studio is easily accessed from the Maine Turnpike (Exit #36) and is just seconds from Route One.


Beginning in February, Finish Forward Dogs will provide a full menu of obedience classes and training opportunities for dogs and puppies of all ages and abilities – plus special classes for the whole family and adoption counseling to assist in selecting the right pet, with a unique junior handler program for kids interested in dog sports on the way. In addition to classes and activities for both the family dog and the competitive canine, Finish Forward Dogs will host a variety of dog-related events, training workshops and educational seminars for dog owners and canine professionals. The studio will also be available for hourly rental.


In collaboration with several area trainers, including Teri Robinson of Canine Kinship, Finish Forward Dogs’ hand-picked training team is comprised of experienced professionals each bringing with them a unique set of skills and expertise in all areas of dog training and behavior. “Our goal is to provide all dog owners with the assistance they need to create happy, balanced canine companions while turning the training process into an experience to be enjoyed by all,” says Shannan. “Through the use of humane, reward-based training techniques and a healthy understanding of learning and behavior, it does become possible to produce lasting results. Our dog-friendly methods promote learning, improve communication, and foster mutual respect, between dog and owner, allowing teams to accomplish great things.”


Classes for the family dog include the AKC’s new S.T.A.R. Puppy program, all levels of Companion Dog training, and Canine Good Citizen/Therapy Dog Prep. Workshops and specialty classes will address specific areas of training and behavior, including leash-walking, coming-when-called, and training the over-exuberant or shy dogs. For the competitive canine, classes include Breed Handling, Competition & Rally Obedience, Canine Musical Freestyle, Tracking, Weight Pull, Agility Foundations, and a variety of Tricks & Games training. The studio is also the proud home of Shannan Hall-Nutting’s Obedience Program for Pit Bulls & Bully Breeds.


“Our emphasis is on professionalism, flexibility, and positivity to provide quality services and training opportunities for every individual in an inviting and supportive atmosphere…Whether the goal is to improve behavior, polish old skills, or take part in a new activity, we invite all dogs and their owners to spend a little time with us!”


Finish Forward Dogs and its owners advocate for area animal shelters and rescue organizations and as supporters of local business, they're looking forward to collaborating with the community to enrich the lives of Maine’s dogs and their families. If you’re a small business owner and you’re interested in working with Finish Forward Dogs, please contact Shannan for additional details on community programs.


Additional details, including class and event schedules can be found at http://www.FinishForwardDogs.com.